Dave's Cancer Fund

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

That's right amigos, next Wednesday September 26, we're holding the first Brain Aid - life as we know it, art exhibition. Thanks to Community Hart, Black Coffee Lyrics, and This Is A Plain Tee (Cubic Collective) for helping to support and guide Brain Aid, but most importantly to the talented individuals whom have demonstrated interest into this unique project. As Brain Aid was inspired by David Montoya, a very creative and passionate individual, this event will be a celebration to the many creative folk out there doing what they love to do, make art! And we look forward to sharing this special evening with you all!

To make this even more special, contributions and donations raised through Brain Aid will be directed to Scott Trevelyan- Willowbank Studio. Scott is an ABI survivor himself and has established a space to support other people with brain injuries through art therapy, by facilitating workshops free of charge. Have a look at his website for his full story and artwork scott-trevelyan.com Thank you Scott.

Much LoveDaniel

Also, check out the BRAIN AIDfacebook page for event details and other cool brain stuff.

David Montoya

Background:Feb 2008: In early 2008 Dave was diagnosed with a deep brain tumor- Anaplastic Oligoastrocytoma, located in the right lateral ventrical. David had no signs of symptoms or ill health. The discovery of the tumor was brought about by a precautionary scan, taken after a bump to the head caused by fall from his bmx bike.

Mar 2009: Almost immediately he underwent his first surgery. Ever since then, Dave has been striving to become more informed about his condition, improving his health and in seeking treatments that would improve his chances with this disease. He was able to return to work and continue to pursue his passions.

Aug 2009: Saw the onset of symptoms of tumor growth and was not able to continue to work as his vision and balance were being effected due to the disturbance of the tumor from his first surgery.

Oct 2009: Lacking resources and scared into no other option, David was booked in for a second operation to remove what they could of the tumor.

Nov 2009: This second surgery had also postponed plans for tumor treatment. and due to the location and size of the tumor surgeons could not remove all of it and would now rely on other conventional adjunct thereapies.

David was re-diagnosed with Recurrent Low Grade Oligoastrocytoma and the new growth a Recurrent Low Grade Anaplastic Oligoastroytoma. Furthermore he was also now dealing with post surgery neurological damage which caused partial paralysis to the left side of his body (mainly his foot and some motor skills)

Dec 2009: Not convinced with conventional offerings.

Although most of it was removed, the fact that the tumor had mutated meant that there is a risk of it doing the same again, unless the necessary steps are taken to stop it.

Dec 2009: In between surgeries, David research and resourcing lead him to consider some conventional and non conventional treatments including Low-Dose Radiotherapy with Hyperthermia, and DMSO which are currently not available in Australia. At the moment he’s making good progress and with your help we should be able to realize these goals very soon. Camelot Cancer Care and Valley Cancer Institute are clinics we are aiming for.

Dec 2010: With much support, David was able to reach these goals. While on treatment, they proved effective. Slowing, and at some stages stopping growth while on the treatment. Unfortunately these treatment have their threshold. And it wasn't long before the tumor picked where it left off.

Objectives: To raise a substantial amount of money to help Dave reach his goals. Including travel, treatment and ongoing bills and expenses. As well as to share, teach and learn from ours and others experiences.